Systems and methods for modular testing of chargers

ABSTRACT

A system and method for testing a charger. A power-end of a charger is received in a power port of a charger tester. An adapter module is received in an adapter port, the adapter module being connected to an adapter-end of the charger. The charger tester is automatically activated to power the charger through the power port in response to the adapter module being received by the adapter port. Performance characteristics of the charger are measured. The performance characteristics of the charger are displayed to a user to indicate functionality of the charger.

BACKGROUND

The use of and development of electronics equipment has grown nearlyexponentially in recent years. The growth is fueled by betterelectronics hardware and software available to organizations andconsumers and the increased appetite for mobile devices. In particular,electronic and mobile devices, such as cell phones, media players,medical equipment, and other similar elements that are battery poweredare being released nearly constantly. Battery powered electronic devicestypically require a charger that is utilized to charge the batterypowering the mobile device by converting electrical energy passingthrough the charger into chemical or potential energy stored by thebattery.

Millions of battery powered devices and their respective chargers arereturned, refurbished, fixed, or otherwise processed each year. Testingchargers may be difficult because of the number of chargers to beprocessed, varying interfaces and ports, load compatibility, andfunctional and non-functional characteristics (i.e., voltage andcurrent). As a result, in many cases re-processed chargers are discardedincreasing environmental and manufacturing waste.

SUMMARY

One embodiment provides a system and method for testing a charger. Apower-end of a charger may be received in a power port of a chargertester. An adapter module may be received in an adapter port, theadapter module may be connected to an adapter-end of the charger. Thecharger tester may be automatically activated to power the chargerthrough the power port in response to the adapter module being receivedby the adapter port. Performance characteristics of the charger may bemeasured. The performance characteristics of the charger may bedisplayed to a user to indicate functionality of the charger.

Another embodiment provides a method for testing a charger. A power-endof the charger may be received in a power port of a charger tester.Information about the charger may be received from a user. A load may bedynamically configured for the charger in response to the information.The charger tester may be automatically activated to power the chargerin response to the charger being received by the charger tester and theload being configured. Performance characteristic of the charger may bemeasured. The performance characteristics of the charger may bedisplayed to the user indicating functionality of the charger.

Yet another embodiment provides a charger tester for testing chargers.The charger tester may include a first port for receiving an adaptermodule connected to an adapter-end of a charger. The charger tester mayfurther include a power supply for powering a charger through a powerport. The charger tester may further include a measurement device formeasuring performance information about the charger. The charger testermay further include a display for displaying performance informationabout the charger to a user. The charger tester may further include asecond port in communication with the first port through a testingcircuit, the second port operable to receive a load module selected totest the charger.

Yet another embodiment provides a charger tester for testing chargers.The charger tester may include a user interface for displaying andreceiving information from a user, the user interface may be operable toreceive the information about the charger from a user. The chargertester may further include a port for receiving an adapter moduleconnected to an adapter-end of the charger. The charger tester mayfurther include a power supply for powering a charger through a powerport. The charger tester may further include a switch in communicationwith the power supply, the switch operable to power the charger inresponse to the adapter module being connected to the charger tester.The charger tester may further include a measurement device formeasuring performance information of the charger during testing. Thecharger tester may further include a display for displaying theperformance information to a user. The charger tester may furtherinclude a dynamic load in communication with the port; the dynamic loadmay be operable to apply a load for testing the charger in response tothe information.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described indetail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which areincorporated by reference herein and wherein:

FIG. 1A is a pictorial representation of a front view of a chargertester in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 1B is a pictorial representation of a rear-view of a charger testerin accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a circuit schematic representation of the charger tester inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3A is a pictorial representation of a charger tester in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3B is a pictorial representation of an alternative charger testerin accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 4A-B is a pictorial representation of an adapter module inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 5A-B is a pictorial representation of a load module in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a process for testing a charger in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment; and

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of another process for testing a charger inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments provide a modular system for testing chargers.In one embodiment, a charger may be tested utilizing a charger tester todetermine functionality or nonfunctionality of the charger for use withone or more electronic devices. The charger tester is a device that maybe utilized by a user to determine functionality or performancecharacteristics of a charger. Functionality may be determined based onpre-set criteria or based on the performance characteristics of thecharger as measured during simulated operational conditions. Performancecharacteristics may include current, voltage, impedance, and othersimilar electrical characteristics of the charger as measured when aload module is modularly connected to the charger tester.

The charger tester may temporarily power the charger during testing. Anadapter module may be connected to the charger tester for receiving anadapter-end of the charger. The adapter module may be selected based onthe charger type, battery-powered device for which the charger isutilized (which may include make and model), and other manually orautomatically determined information. Similarly, a load or load modulemay be manually or dynamically applied to the charger by the chargertester to simulate a standard, maximum, or customized load that may beutilized by the charger during operation to determine the performancecharacteristics. The charger tester may include a number of safetymeasures including relays, switches, and timers utilized to ensure thesafety of the user and continued operation of the charger and chargertester during and after testing of the charger.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A-B, one embodiment of a charger tester 100 isillustrated. The charger tester 100 may include any number ofcomponents, elements, and configurations. In one embodiment, the chargertester 100 may include an AC test outlet 102, an adapter port 104, apower switch 108, a volt meter 110, a power indicator 112, an ammeter114, a load port 116, a circuit breaker 118, an AC power inlet 120, aload module 122, an adapter module 124, a charger 126, a power-end 128,and an adapter-end 130.

The charger tester 100 may be modularly configured to test mobilecharging devices, such as the charger 126. Typically the charger 126 maybe utilized to charge a battery or other energy storage device or totemporarily power an electronic device. For example, the charger 126 maybe utilized to charge a cell phone battery. The charger tester 100 maybe modularly configured to test the charger 126. For instance, theadapter module 124 and the load module 122 may be selected specificallyfor testing the charger 326. The modular connection of the adaptermodule 124 and load module 122 provides flexibility for efficientlytesting a number of different charger types for reuse rather thandiscarding or recycling the chargers based on an unknown condition.

The adapter module 124 is an adapter for interfacing the adapter-end 328of the charger 126 with the charger tester 100 through a port. Theadapter module 124 may be adapted to receive the adapter-end 130 of thecharger 126. The adapter-end 130 may be a standardized interface, suchas those promulgated by a standards body or other technical or industrysource, or a proprietary interface, such as those used by numerouselectronic device manufacturers. In one embodiment, the adapter-end 130may represent a mini or micro USB. In particular, the adapter module 124is configured to connect to the adapter port 104 so that a load andmeasurements may be made as if the charger 126 was actually powering orcharging an electronic device.

The adapter module 124 may be configured to be received by the adapterport 104. In one embodiment, the adapter port 104 is an RJ45 jack/portconfigured to receive an RJ45 head integrated with the adapter module124. The adapter port 104 and associated connector of the adapter module124 may utilize any number of adapter combinations suitable for frequentand extensive testing. In another embodiment, the adapter module 124 maybe integrated with the charger tester 100, but may be removed asnecessary for testing distinct chargers. The adapter module 124 isfurther described in FIGS. 4A-B. In one embodiment, the insertion of theadapter-end 130 of the adapter module 124 may activate power through thecharger 126 in response to pins 3 and 6 of the adapter module 124 makingcontact.

The load module 122 is a resistive load that is connectable to thecharger 126. The load module 122 may provide a resistive load thatsimulates the load required to charge or power the mobile deviceassociated with the charger 126. The load module 122 may also beconfigured to simulate completely emptied batteries, complex impedanceand resistance characteristics, and other conditions that the charger326 may experience in real world environments.

In one embodiment, the load module 122 may be configured to supply+/−10% of the rated load. The rated load may be provided based onoriginal equipment manufacturers (OEM) guidelines or specifications forthe associated mobile device. The adapter module 124 and load module 122are modular and may be easily changed out to test alternative electronicdevices providing a user or technician maximum efficiency to test anumber of chargers. The load module 122 may be connected to the loadport 116 of the charger tester 100. The load module 122 is furtherdescribed in FIGS. 5A-B.

The load module 122 and the adapter module 124 may include plastichousings with ergonomics that allow the easy insertion or removal fromthe charger tester 100. The electrical components of the load module 122and the adapter module 124 including pins, traces, wires, paths,resistors, circuitry, logic, and other elements may be similarlyprotected by the housings.

The load port 116 provides a universal configuration for receiving anynumber of load modules. In one embodiment, the load port 116 may beconfigured to receive banana jacks. However, the load port 116 may beused to receive any load module 122 suited for electronically connectinga resistance or impedance to the charger 126 that approximates orsimulates operation of the charger 126 when charging or powering themobile device. The load port 116 may be configured to receive two ormore connectors that are part of the load module 122 for applying theload to the device. The load port 116 provides flexibility for applyingdifferent load modules with different requirements.

The charger 126 is powered through the AC test outlet 102 in response tothe adapter module 124 being inserted into the adapter port 104. The ACtest outlet 102 is a power outlet configured to power the charger 126 atthe designated voltage. In one embodiment, the charger tester 100 mayinclude various test outlets or power ports for powering the charger 126at different voltages or in order to interface with different poweradapters. For example, the charger tester 100 may be configured tointerface with European devices that may have different voltage andconnect requirements and standards. Similarly, the charger tester 100may include alternative power ports for testing vehicular chargingdevices, such as an interface for a power port or cigarette lighter of avehicle. Alternatively, a USB powered port or other alternative powersports may be provided as well.

The volt meter 110 measures the voltage across the charger 126 whilebeing tested. The ammeter 114 similarly measures the current through thecharger 126 during testing. In one embodiment, the volt meter 110 andammeter 114 include a digital display that indicate on an exteriorportion of the charger tester 100 the applicable voltage and currentmeasured by the charger tester 100. The digital display may alsoindicate whether the charger 126 has passed or failed the applicabletest based on manually or automatically determined criteria orthresholds. The volt meter 110 and ammeter 114 may measure and displayany number of configured test results including spikes, averages, orother specific tests.

The AC power inlet 120 provides power to the charger tester 100 andindirectly to the AC test outlet 102. The circuit breaker 118 is anautomatically-operated electrical switch that protects the chargertester 100 and charger 126 under test from damage caused by overload ora short circuit. The circuit breaker 118 discontinues electrical flow inthe event of excessive AC input current to the charger 126 (includingprimary or secondary windings), short circuit, or failure of the loadmodule 122.

The power switch 108 is an electrical switch for electrically activatingthe charger tester 100. The power switch 108 provides a manual switchfor activating or deactivating the charger tester 100. The powerindicator 112 may be utilized to indicate that the charger tester 100 isperforming testing of the charger 126. Alternatively, the powerindicator 112 may also indicate when the charger tester 100 is pluggedin through the AC power inlet 120 and/or when the power switch 108 hasbeen activated.

As shown, the charger tester 100 may be encompassed by plates, panels,or one or more frames that house the circuits, ports, indicators, andother elements of the charger tester. The charger tester 100 may takeany number of shapes and configurations.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a circuit schematic representation of thecharger tester is illustrated. FIG. 2 provides one embodiment of acharger tester circuit 200 that may be part of a charger tester, such ascharger tester 100 of FIG. 1. In one embodiment, the charger testercircuit 200 may include an AC power inlet 202, a circuit breaker 204, apower indicator 206, a power supply 208, a control relay 212, an ACpower outlet 214, a voltmeter 216, an ammeter 218, a load port 220, anadapter port 222, and a DC jack 224.

The charger tester circuit 200 may utilized any number of configurationsand is one implementation of a portion of the components of the chargertester 100 of FIG. 1. For example, the charger tester circuit 200 mayinclude any number of amplifiers, filters, transformers, ports,adapters, boards, memories, processors, chips, programmable logic, andother similar components that, although not explicitly shown, mayfurther enable the processes and functionality of the charger testercircuit 200 as herein described.

The AC power inlet 202 is an interface for receiving alternatingcurrent. The AC power inlet 202 may interface with a power cord,transformer, power interface, or plug for powering the charger testercircuit 200. The power supply 208 converts the alternating current intoa voltage usable by the charger tester circuit 200 to power the internalcomponents and power a charger during testing. As previously disclosed,the power supply 208 may include an interface for regulating the voltagestandard applied to the charger.

The circuit breaker 204 is an automatically-operated electrical switchdesigned to protect the charger tester circuit 200 from damage caused byoverload, short circuit, or overheating. For example, in response to ashort in a charger, adapter module, or load module that begins tooverload the charger tester circuit 200, the circuit breaker 204 maydisable power to the charger through the AC power outlet 214 bydisconnecting power through all or a portion of the charger testercircuit 200.

In one embodiment, the AC power outlet 214 may be a standard 120 Voutlet. Alternatively, the AC power outlet 214 may include power outletsor interfaces for other world standards, vehicle chargers, USB chargers,and the power end of alternative types of chargers.

The control relay 212 is also an electrically operated switch that actsas a safety device. In one embodiment, the control relay 212 mayactivate power between the AC power outlet 214 and the DC jack 224 inresponse to the adapter module being inserted in the DC jack 224. As aresult, the charger tester circuit 200 is self-energized based oninsertion of the adapter module in the DC jack 224 and similarly powereddown in response to removal of the adapter module.

The power indicator 206 may indicate that power is being supplied to thecharger tester circuit 200 or to the AC power outlet 214. For instance,the power indicator 206 may light up when alternating current isreceived through the AC power inlet 202. The power indicator 206 mayalso light up when the AC power outlet 214 is actively supplying avoltage to a charger under test.

The load port 220 provides an interface for receiving the selected loadmodule. The load port 220 may also provide a safety feature by acting asan AC power relay control in conjunction with the adapter port 222. Forexample, the load port 220 may include ports configured to receivebanana plugs. Alternative types of connectors, terminals, and plugs mayalso be utilized for both the load port 220 and the load module. Theload port 220 provides an interface for applying the resistive loadacross the charger tester circuit 200 in order to measure voltage, amps,and other performance characteristics of the charger. As previouslydescribed, the volt meter 216 and the ammeter 218 may measure voltageand current, respectively.

The adapter port 222 provides one example of pins and wiring utilized totest the charger. In one embodiment, the adapter port 222 is configuredto interact with the DC jack 224, such as an RJ-45 jack. The DC jack 224may utilize spring loaded electrical connections to interface with theadapter module, such as an RJ-45 head.

In other embodiments, the charger tester circuit 200 may have morecomplex configurations for receiving user input through a userinterface, such as a touch screen, voice commands, or other elements todynamically configure the charger tester for testing a specified chargertype. For instance, based on information from a user, the charger testercircuit 200 may locally retrieve or look up charger information througha network connection or database stored in memory to select theappropriate configuration and applicable load utilized to test thecharger.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A-B that provide alternative embodiments of acharger tester 300. The charger tester 300 of FIG. 3A may include an ACtest outlet 302, an adapter port 304, a power supply 306, a switch 308,a measurement device 310, a display 312, a load port 316, an overloadprotector 318, a safety switch 320, a load module 322 and an adaptermodule 324. As previously described, the load module 322 and the adaptermodule 324 may be modularly connected or configured to test a charger326 with an adapter-end 328 and a power-end 330. The configuration ofthe charger tester 300 in FIG. 3A generally corresponds to theembodiments of FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B and FIG. 2. All or portions of thecharger tester circuit 200 of FIG. 2 may be implemented in the chargertester 300 of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

The modular design for the load module 322 and adapter module 324 allowsloads and adapters for chargers to be easily replaced in the event offailure and changed out for testing different chargers without havingcharger specific testers.

As previously disclosed, the measurement device 310 may include the voltmeter and ammeter that indicate the voltage and amperage drawn by thecharger 326 during testing. The measurement device 310 may alternativelyinclude other measurement circuits or modular testing elementsconfigured for testing the charger 326, such as an ohm meter, tonesensor, fault detector, and other elements.

In another embodiment, the measurement device 310 may includeindicators, such as light emitting diodes (LED)s, LED screen(s), or atextual display that indicates whether the charger 326 has passed thetest executed by the charger tester 300. The measurement device 310 mayfunction in conjunction with the display 312 to audibly, visually, orotherwise indicate information and data to a user utilizing the chargertester 300. The measurement device 310 may include digital or analogthresholds or criteria indicating whether the charger 326 has passed atest. The measurement device 310 may utilize logic to indicatecompliance or non-compliance of the charger 326 with the criteria.

The load module 322 may also include a safety switch 320. The safetyswitch 320 is a switch that prevents the resistive elements of the loadmodule 322 from overheating or otherwise being damaged during thetesting process. For example, the charger tester 300 may be utilized toperform numerous tests of chargers over an extended amount of time.During that time period, the load module 322 may heat substantially. Asa result, the safety switch 320 provides an additional protection forthe load module 322 that similarly protects the charger tester 300beyond the protections provided by the switch 308 and the overloadprotector 318 as previously described.

Turning now to FIG. 3B, the various embodiments of the charger tester300 as herein disclosed may include components, elements and otherconfigurations that may be combined selectively to provide specifiedfeatures and technical configurations for testing purposes. In additionto those elements previously described, the charger tester 300 of FIG.3B may further include a user interface 340, a processor 342, a memory332, a database 334, a scanner 336, a timer 314 and a dynamic load 338.

The timer 314 may be utilized to ensure that the charger 326 is onlytested or energized under test for a specified amount of time. In oneembodiment, the timer 314 is a bi-metallic switch that is configured totest the charger tester 300 for approximately two to five seconds beforedisengaging the circuit powering the charger 326. The bi-metallic switchmay prevent the charger tester 300 from overheating. The bi-metallicswitch may be disengaged based on the time or current that it takes fora bi-metallic strip within the switch to be mechanically displacedthereby tripping the bi-metallic switch and severing the testingcircuit. For example, the bi-metallic switch may disconnect the testingcircuit after a current and/or time has heated the components of thebi-metallic switch to one or more threshold levels. In one embodiment,the bi-metallic switch may be integrated with the load module or dynamicload 338. The bi-metallic switch may disconnect the DC side of thecharger for disconnecting the output of the charger as well as the powerpins of the adapter module 324, such as pins 3 and 6 of an RJ45 jack.

In another embodiment, the timer 314 may be a digital or analog timerthat performs the test for a specified amount of time once the adaptermodule 324 is inserted into the adapter port 304. For example, the timer314 may be configured by a user to engage the circuit between the ACtest outlet 302 and the adapter module 324 for three seconds toimplement the test. After three seconds, the timer 314 disconnects thecircuit or voltage applied through the AC test outlet 302 to thepower-end 330 of the charger 326 until the adapter module 324 is removedand then reinserted with the same charger 326 or another charger beingtested. Alternatively, the charger tester 300 may incorporate any numberof other timing elements that may ensure that the testing of the chargerdoes not exceed a specified time period or to distinctly set a timeperiod for testing the charger 326.

In one embodiment, the charger tester 300 is an interactive devicecapable of interacting with the user and similarly retrieving internallyor externally stored information. For example, the charger tester 300may include a wireless transceiver, network adapter, or other similarcards, ports, interfaces, boards, or components for communicating withone or more devices or wired or wireless networks for sending andreceiving data required by the charger tester 300 or informationreceived from a user. For example, as a number of tests are performedfor specific chargers, an identifier, such as a part number or otherlabel, may be associated with each charger and the results of the testfor the charger may be stored in an externally located database that maybe updated based on tests performed utilizing the charger tester 300. Asa result, test results may be automatically or selectively communicatedto one or more external devices, memories, or databases for access orstorage.

In one embodiment, the user interface 340 may include one or moreinterfacing elements for receiving user input and information. The userinterface 340 may include a touch screen, keypad, keyboard, scrollwheel, buttons, switches, mouse, or other internally or externallyintegrated peripherals. The user interface 340 may be utilized toreceive information regarding the charger 326 or the associatedelectronic device. For example, the user may access the user interface340 to specify a brand of cell phone that is charged by the charger 326.Based on the user providing this information through the user interface340, the charger tester 300 may utilize the memory 332, database 334, orother configurable logic in the charger tester 300, to configure thedynamic load 338. For example, based on a selection of a Motorola phoneassociated with the charger 326, the dynamic load 338 may be configuredto specific load values to best simulate actual operation of the charger326 in a real world environment.

The processor 342 is circuitry or logic enabled to control execution ofa set of instructions. The processor 342 may be microprocessors, digitalsignal processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC),central processing units, or other devices suitable for controlling anelectronic device including one or more hardware and software elements,executing software, instructions, programs, and applications, convertingand processing signals and information, and performing other relatedtasks. The processor 342 may be a single chip or integrated with othercomputing or communications elements.

The memory 332 is a hardware element, device, or recording mediaconfigured to store data for subsequent retrieval or access at a latertime. The memory 332 may be static or dynamic memory. The memory 332 mayinclude a hard disk, random access memory, cache, removable media drive,mass storage, or configuration suitable as storage for data,instructions, and information. In one embodiment, the memory 332 andprocessor 342 may be integrated. The memory may use any type of volatileor non-volatile storage techniques and mediums.

The memory 332 and/or database 334 may store data, information,specifications, or configurations for a number of chargers andassociated electronic devices. For example, the database 334 may storeconfigurations of the dynamic load 338 for a number of different phonemodels, device types, adapters, versions, and so forth. As a result, theuser interface 340 may more accurately indicate to the user whether thecharger 326 has passed one or more tests based on criteria, parameters,thresholds, percentages and requirements for the charger as stored inthe database 334. The memory 332 and database 334 may be updated througha network connection as previously described. Additionally, the userinterface 340 may include other interfaces, such as a USB port forupdating the database 334 through a thumb drive or other externallyconnected device or storage element. The memory 332 may store testingscripts that run one or more tests on the charger 326 simultaneously orin series. The testing scripts may be executed by the processor 342 totest the functionality and performance characteristics of the charger326.

In one embodiment, the memory 332 or database 334 may store a table. Thetable may be utilized to look up data or information for configuring thedynamic load. For example, based on user input received through the userinterface 340 or information automatically determined by the chargertester 300, the table may configure the dynamic load 338. The table mayalso be utilized to determine functionality or non-functionality of thecharger 326 based on the performance characteristics measured duringtesting of the charger 326. For example, based on threshold values forvoltage, current, and resistance, the table may display a pass or failindicator through the user interface 340. The table may store a numberof threshold values for passing, failing, or generating a diagnostic foreach charger.

In one embodiment, different OEMs or service providers may have specifictest configurations, scripts, specifications, tolerances, or parametersthat are required for chargers utilized or associated with theircompany, products, or network. In another embodiment, the charger tester300 may include the scanner 336. The scanner 336 may automaticallydetermine the charge testing parameters and information associated withthe charger 326.

In one embodiment the scanner 336 is a barcode scanner that scans abarcode, numbers, engravings, or other markings engraved on or attachedto the charger 326 by a sticker, label, or other indicator. The scanner336 may communicate with the processor 342 and memory 332 to retrievethe relevant charge testing information. As a result, based on one ormore scans, any number of devices may be tested utilizing a singleparameter or test script. Similarly, the scanner 336 may note specificinformation for each charger 326, such as an item identification numberto store the results of the test to further distribute, recycle, scrap,or otherwise process one or more chargers based on the results ofsuccessful or unsuccessful tests.

In another embodiment, the scanner 336 may be a radio frequencyidentification (RFID) tag reader. The RFID tag reader may identify orretrieve information from an RFID tag integrated with the charger 326 orassociated with the corresponding mobile device. The charger tester 300may similarly configure the dynamic load 338 based on the RFID tag orthe barcode to quickly and efficiently implement testing.

Loads may be applied by the dynamic load utilizing electronic switchinghaving specific data read from the OEM stored file by scanning thecharger or associated electronic device or determining the IMEI of thephone with which the charger is associated. The dynamic load 338 mayrepresent a physical resistive array and may be configured based on theload requirements of the charger. For example, OEM Motorola requires 5ohms at 10 watts; this configuration may be created by selecting theactual single resistor or a combination of resistors (in series orparallel) which equates to the needed load. Another charger tester 300or method may utilize a similar resistive array that is manuallyselected by a user though a series of switches for the specific chargerunder test.

In yet another embodiment, the charger tester 300 may be utilized tointerface with batteries or other energy storage devices. The conditionand status of the battery may be tested utilizing the charger tester 300and one or more interfaces adapted to connect the battery to the chargertester 300. The charger tester 300 may include sense lines for feedbackand thermal sensing. The charger tester 300 may be utilized to testindividual cells or arrays of cells within the battery to determinefunctionality and capabilities of the batteries under test. The batterytesting function of the charger tester 300 may allow: use of commoncircuitry and functions including AC and DC power elements. The chargertester 300 may also enable data transfer of battery status for recordkeeping and may include multiple interfaces allowing for simultaneoustesting of different battery types. After charging is complete thevariable load array may be selected to implement battery testing,allowing the charger tester 300 to select an electronically proper load.Test results may be saved, archived, or accessed as needed. The modularelements of the charger tester 300 provide an integrated approach thatrequires less redundant circuitry than a separate standalone unit fortesting chargers or batteries. In the event of failure of one or moreelements of the charger tester 300, replacing modular or otherwisefixing the charger tester 300 is quick and cost effective.

In one embodiment, the charger tester 300 may be configured to testmultiple chargers sequentially or simultaneously. As a result, thecharger tester may include multiple ports for receiving the relevantadapter modules and load modules. The other components of the chargertester 300 may be similarly configured.

In another embodiment, the processor 342 may execute a script to scanthe charger 326. The scan may provide characteristics of the charger326. The results of the scan may be compared to other scan results todetermine the type and configuration of the charger 326 in order toconfigure the dynamic load 338 and the tests run by the charger tester300.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A-B, FIG. 4A illustrates a front-view of adaptermodules 402, 404, 406, and 408. FIG. 4B illustrates a top-view of theadapter module 402 which is similarly representative of other adaptermodules. The adapter modules 402, 404, 406, and 408 include ports 410,412, 414, and 416, and connector 418.

The adapter modules 402, 404, 406, and 408 represent a few of manypossible adapter modules that may be utilized with the charger tester totest or evaluate different types of chargers. As is well known, many ofthe chargers may utilize DC connectors or adapter-ends with specificvoltages, polarity, current rating, power supply filtering andstability, and mechanical configurations that are incompatible withother chargers and mobile devices. The ports 410, 412, 414, and 416 areconfigured to receive specific types of adapter-ends of the chargers.For example, the ports 410, 412, 414, and 416 may be configured toreceive mini or micro-USB connectors and numerous other types ofadapter-ends of the chargers associated with handset manufacturers,services providers, and standards.

The pins, traces, or electrical connection elements of the ports 410,412, 414, and 416 are connected to the connector 418. The connector 418is a uniform adapter that allows the adapter modules 402, 404, 406, and408 to be connected to the charger tester through a single port or jack,such as, for example, through the adapter port 222 of FIG. 2. The pins,leads, or connectors of the ports 410, 412, 414, and 416 and connector418 allow the charger to be tested as if it were connected to an actualelectronic device for charging or operation.

In one embodiment, the charger tester may supply power through thecharger in response to a user inserting the connector 418 into acorresponding port of the charger tester. In one embodiment, theconnector 418 represents an RJ45 head or connector. The connector 418may be an RJ45 head based on know data regarding reliability anddurability over time. RJ45 heads are also easily identifiable, oriented,and inserted or removed from the charger tester. In one embodiment, theconnector 418 may not include a locking tab that locks once inserted ina corresponding jack or port. Alternatively, the connector 418 may beany number of other male-connector types including USB or other similarconnector types.

FIG. 5A illustrates a front-view of load modules 502, 504, 506, and 508.FIG. 5B illustrates a side view of the load module 502. With regard toFIGS. 5A-B, the load modules 502, 504, 506, and 508 are resistive loadsthat simulate the load placed on a charger during the charging process.The load modules 502, 504, 506, and 508 may include two or moreconnectors 510 and 512. The connectors 510 and 512 electrically connectthe resistive load of the load modules 502 to the charger to completethe testing circuit. For example, the connectors 510 and 512 may beconnected across the load port 220 of FIG. 2 to apply a load across thecorresponding portions, pins, or conductors of the charger. Theconnectors 510 and 512 may be banana connectors or other similarconnectors or terminals.

In one embodiment, the load modules 502, 504, 506, and 508 (and theadapter modules 402, 404, 406, and 408 of FIG. 4) may be labeled,engraved, or color coded to indicate a charger or mobile device typeassociated with the load module and the orientation of the load modules502, 504, 506, and 508 for connection to the charger tester. Thisinformation may be automatically or manually scanned or read by thecharger tester. In one embodiment, the charger tester includes a singleload port configured to receive the two or more connectors of the loadmodules 502, 504, and 506. However, the charger tester may alternativelyinclude additional ports or the ports may be configured to receivealternative types of connectors as shown by load module 508. In oneembodiment, multiple load modules may be utilized to reach a specifiedresistive load.

The adapter modules 402, 404, 406, and 408 of FIG. 4 and the loadmodules 502, 504, 506, and 508 of FIG. 5 may be replaced or changed outin response to failure due to repeated use or other problems. As aresult, the charger tester may be reconfigured and continue to remainoperational despite failures of the modular components. The switches andports, such as the adapter port and load port, of the charger tester mayalso be modularly integrated with the charger tester in order to replaceor exchange portions of the charger tester as needed. In anotherembodiment, the adapter modules 402, 404, 406, and 408 of FIG. 4 and theload modules 502, 504, 506, and 508 of FIG. 5 may be integrated with thecharger tester so that only the adapter-end or power-end of the chargeris inserted into the charger tester.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a process for testing a charger in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment. The process of FIG. 6 may beimplemented by a user 602 and a charger tester 604 in accordance withone embodiment. The order of the steps in FIGS. 6 and 7 may be variedbased on environment, conditions, and user preferences.

The process may begin with the user 602 retrieving a charger for testing(step 606). The charger may be tested as part of a returns, replacement,refurbishment, or repair process or other procedure that may requireverification of the functionality of the charger.

Next, the user 602 selects an adapter module and a load module for thecharger (step 608). The adapter module and the load module representadapters or modules for testing the specific model or type of charger.The adapter module and the load module may include labels, markings orother indicators associating each with one or more makes, models, ortypes of mobile devices for identification by a user or automatedelement, such as a scanner.

Next, the user 602 plugs the power-end of the charger into the powerport and the load module into the load port of the charger tester (step610). In other embodiments, the charger tester may be utilized to testchargers for vehicles, battery packs, or other similar electronicelements.

Next, the user 602 plugs the adapter-end of the charger into the adaptermodule and the adapter module into the adapter port of the chargertester (step 612).

Next, the charger tester 604 automatically activates power to the powerport in response to the adapter module being received in the adapterport (step 614). As previously described, both the load module and theadapter module must be electrically connected to the charger tester inorder for the charger to be energized.

Next, the charger tester 604 measures the current and voltage throughthe charger to determine functionality or non-functionality of thecharger (step 616).

Next, the charger tester 604 displays the measurements and indicators tothe user (step 618). The measurements and indicators may be displayed inalphanumeric format or utilizing visual indicators, such as a screen,green or red LEDs, or other displays to indicate that the charger haspassed or failed according to specified parameters stored by the chargeror utilized by the user 602.

Simultaneously, the user 602 reviews the displayed measurements todetermine functionality of the charger (step 620).

The charger tester 604 may also deactivate the power to the power portin response to a time period expiring (step 622). The power may bedeactivated utilizing a timer, a bi-metallic switch, or other timingelement.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of another process for testing a charger inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process of FIG. 7 may beimplemented by a charger tester based on interaction with a user to testa charger. The process may begin by receiving information from a userabout a charger (step 702). The information may include functionalparameters for the charger and the associated mobile device. Forexample, the information may specify a make, model, operating systemversion, or other information associated with the charger. In oneembodiment, the charger tester may include a scanner, such as a barcodescanner that scans a barcode or other identification information on thecharger.

Next, the charger tester receives the charger for testing (step 704).For example, the power-end of the charger may be connected to thecharger.

Next, the charger tester determines an appropriate load for testing thecharger in response to the information (step 706). For example,particular brands of charger testers may require a specified resistiveload to simulate the load required to charge the mobile device. The loadmay also be varied during testing to ensure functionality at minimum tomaximum load parameters.

Next, the charger tester dynamically configures the load of the chargertester (step 708). The charger tester may also set fixed or variabletesting parameters and how the test results are recorded.

Next, the charger tester activates power to the charger in response toan adapter-end of the charger connected to an adapter module beingconnected to an adapter port and a load configured (step 710). Thecharger tester may power the charger in response to determining orsensing that the adapter module has been inserted in the test port. Inanother embodiment, insertion of the adapter module automaticallycompletes the testing circuit to initiate testing.

The charger tester measures the current and voltage through the chargerto determine functionality or non-functionality of the charger (step712). The determination may be made based on testing or measurementsscripts or programs executed by the charger tester.

Next, the charger tester displays the measurements and indicators to theuser (step 714). The measurements and indicators may also be storedand/or communicated to an external device.

The charger tester deactivates the power to the power port in responseto a time period expiring (step 716). The time period may be determinedelectronically or mechanically. For example, a digital or analog timeror bi-metallic switch may be utilized. The timer may disconnect power tothe charger after a period of two to five seconds as set by testingparameters or a user. The bi-metallic switch may disconnect power to thecharger in response to a temperature of the bi-metallic switch reachinga certain point or overheating due to current passing through thebi-metallic switch. The process of FIG. 7 may be similar to the processof FIG. 6.

The previous detailed description is of a small number of embodimentsfor implementing the invention and is not intended to be limiting inscope. The following claims set forth a number of the embodiments of theinvention disclosed with greater particularity.

1. A method for testing a charger, comprising: receiving a power-end ofa charger in a power port of a charger tester; receiving an adaptermodule in an adapter port, the adapter module being connected to anadapter-end of the charger; automatically activating the charger testerto power the charger through the power port in response to the adaptermodule being received by the adapter port; measuring performancecharacteristics of the charger; and displaying the performancecharacteristics of the charger to a user to indicate functionality ofthe charger.
 2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:receiving a load module in a load port of the charger tester, the loadmodule and the adapter module selected by a user in response to thecharger being tested.
 3. The method according to claim 1, furthercomprising: deactivating power to the charger in response to a timeperiod elapsing from when the charger began to be powered.
 4. The methodaccording to claim 3, wherein the deactivating is performed by abi-metallic switch disengaging power to the charger in response to thebi-metallic switch a threshold.
 5. The method according to claim 2,wherein the performance characteristics include a visual indicatoroperable to indicate whether the charger is functional or nonfunctional.6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the performancecharacteristics includes a voltage and a current drawn by the chargertest when driving the load module.
 7. The method according to claim 2,wherein the adapter port and the load port are operable tointerchangeably receive each of a plurality of adapter modules and eachof a plurality of load modules for testing each of a plurality ofchargers.
 8. The method according to claim 2, wherein the adapter moduleand the load module are selected from a plurality of adapter modules anda plurality of load modules associated with each of a plurality ofchargers.
 9. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:automatically deactivating power to the charger by activating a safetyswitch in response to a safety threshold being exceeded.
 10. A methodfor testing a charger, comprising: receiving a power-end of the chargerin a power port of a charger tester; receiving information about thecharger from a user; dynamically configuring a load for testing thecharger in response to the information; automatically activating thecharger tester to power the charger in response to the charger beingreceived by the charger tester and the load being configured; measuringperformance characteristics of the charger while powered; and displayingthe performance characteristics of the charger to the user indicatingfunctionality of the charger.
 11. The method according to claim 10,further comprising: deactivating power to the charger in response to atime period elapsing from when the charger began to be powered.
 12. Themethod according to claim 10, wherein the information includes aselection of an electronic device associated with the charger, theinformation being received through a user interface of the chargertester.
 13. The method according to claim 10, wherein the user connectsan adapter module to an adapter-end of the charger, the charger testerpowering the charger in response to the adapter module being connectedto an adapter port of the charger tester.
 14. The method according toclaim 10, wherein the charger tester determines the load utilizing theinformation and a database including load information for a plurality ofelectronic devices, and wherein the charger tester determinesfunctionality of the charger utilizing data within the databaseassociated with the information.
 15. A charger tester for testingchargers, comprising: a first port for receiving an adapter moduleconnected to an adapter-end of a charger; a power supply for powering acharger through a power port; a measurement device for measuringperformance information for the charger; a display for displaying theperformance information to a user; and a second port in communicationwith the first port through a testing circuit, the second port operableto receive a load module selected to test the charger.
 16. The chargertester according to claim 15, wherein the adapter module and the loadmodule are selected by a user in response to the charger type, whereinthe adapter module and the load module are selected from a plurality ofadapter modules and a plurality of load modules each corresponding toone or more chargers, and wherein the adapter module and the load modulebeing connected to the first port and the second port, respectively, bythe user.
 17. The charger tester according to claim 15, furthercomprising: a switch in communication with the power supply, the switchoperable to power the charger and the testing circuit in response to theadapter module being connected to the first port.
 18. The charger testeraccording to claim 15, further comprising: a timer in communication withthe power supply, the timer operable to deactivate power to the chargerin response to a time period elapsing from when the charger began to bepowered or in response to detecting a potential failure in the chargertester or the charger.
 19. The charger tester according to claim 15,further comprising: a safety switch in communication with the loadmodule configured to electrically disconnect the load module from thecharger in response to exceeding a threshold.
 20. The charger testeraccording to claim 15, wherein the measurement device displays whetherthe charger is functional or nonfunctional.
 21. A charger tester fortesting chargers, comprising: a user interface for displaying andreceiving information from a user, the user interface operable toreceive the information about the charger from the user; a port forreceiving an adapter module connected to an adapter-end of the charger;a power supply for powering a charger through a power port; a switch incommunication with the power supply, the switch operable to power thecharger in response to the adapter module being connected to the chargertester; a measurement device for measuring performance information ofthe charger during testing; a display for displaying the performanceinformation to a user; and a dynamic load in communication with theport, the dynamic load operable to apply a load for testing the chargerin response to the information.
 22. The charger tester according toclaim 21, further comprising: a database in communication with the userinterface operable to determine the load in response to the information,wherein the measurement device displays whether the charger isfunctional or nonfunctional based on the information and measurementsread from the charger by the measurement device during testing.
 23. Thecharger tester according to claim 21, further comprising: acommunications module for sending test results for the charger to anexternal device.
 24. The charger tester according to claim 21, furthercomprising: a scanner for scanning the information directly from thecharger to configure the dynamic load.
 25. The charger tester accordingto claim 21, further comprising: a timer in communication with the powersupply, the timer operable to deactivate power to the power port inresponse to a time period elapsing from when the charger began to bepowered; and a safety switch in communication with the dynamic load, thesafety switch configured to disconnect the dynamic load from the chargerin response to exceeding a threshold, wherein the adapter module isselected by a user in response to the charger type, the adapter modulebeing connected to the port by the user.